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Opt for single story accommodation -

The ideal senior-friendly abode should be a single-story accommodation unit. For example, a bungalow is perfect.

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Ramp it up -

If possible, create a flush-entry with ramps. This, of course, makes perfect sense if the householder is wheelchair-bound.

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Elevate your position -

Essentially, an elevator should serve an apartment building. This facilitates ease of access for the elderly or infirm, and is wheelchair friendly.

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Take time out -

A bench placed near the front or back door is a good idea, and allows the tired and elderly to relax.

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Get yourself covered -

A covered entryway into the home is always an asset. It's desirable to have at least one exterior area completely protected from the elements.

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Fill in the cracks -

Access to accommodation needs to be smooth and level. Repave and reconstruct approaches—paths, driveways, etc.—where necessary. If leveling uneven surfaces is impractical, add non-slip strips or scuff the surface to create improved adhesion.

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Get a grip -

Similarly, it's a good idea to add non-slip flooring in the entry way inside the home.

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Be alarmed! -

Make sure the home is fitted throughout with smoke/fire alarms. They are designed to save lives, young and old!

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Need a lift? -

Not everyone is fortunate to live in one-story accommodation. If there are stairs, install rails on both sides of the stairwell. Better still if space and budget allow, install a stair lift.

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Appropriate flooring -

Appropriate flooring in the kitchen and elsewhere in the house is a top priority. Choose a non-glare covering for the kitchen—cork tiling is ideal!

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Soft landing -

For halls, lounges, and the bedroom, plush high pile carpets work well if you are concerned about falling accidents.

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Fit motion activated lighting -

Better exterior illumination is always a good idea. Increase lighting at all entry areas, preferably motion activated for convenience and extra security.

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Lock it and light it -

Expanding the lighting theme, try and point lighting at the front and back door handles and locks.

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Time to upgrade the kitchen -

Create a functional kitchen. The objective is to increase accessibility and prevent bending or crouching.

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Round it off -

To avoid nasty bumps or bruises, counters and worktops should have rounded or squared edges.

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Handy pantry -

Install a pull-out pantry. This facilitates easier access to frequently used items.

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More shelf life -

Similarly, use open shelving fixed at head height to store crockery and other kitchenware.

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Sink hole -

Opt for a shallow sink bowl. Rinsing vegetables and washing up is far easier in a sink that isn't too deep.

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Better insulation -

Insulate any exposed hot water pipes (which makes sense in any kitchen).

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Safer cooking -

Choose a stove with continuous grates (for gas) or a flat surface (hob) so that pots and pans can be removed off the burner without lifting.

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Minimize the work load -

Keep the sink close to the stove. This way movement between two of the most commonly used pieces of kitchen equipment is minimized.

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Look and listen -

For ease of use, place the microwave at counter height. Tip: make sure a microwave has a loud "ding" at shut off—seniors need to be able to hear when it has finished running.

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Cold comfort -

Refrigerators should be well lit inside and feature long, one-piece handles that make the door easier to grip for those with arthritis or anyone with a medical condition that causes numbness in their hands or fingers.

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Boiling point -

Using kitchen appliances with automatic shut-offs are important (items like kettles). Incidentally, make sure the handle on your kettle is large enough. This way you can hold it in a grip when pouring water.

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Don't go around the bend -

You should always be able to reach the washing machine without bending. The same applies to the dryer. The loading area should be able to fit your height. Try to install either on a raised platform.

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Secure the bathroom -

Many slips and falls occur in and around the bathroom and shower area, so it's a good idea to fit slip-prevention flooring throughout these zones. As an added precaution, place non-skid bath mats and non-slip strips in the bath and shower.

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Take a seat -

Help facilitate shower or bath time by adding a fold-down seat or bench in the tub or shower.

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Fit grab bars -

Well placed grab bars in the shower, tub, and next to the toilet can help prevent falls. In fact, grab bars placed strategically throughout the house can help elderly people maneuver more easily from room to room.

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What to do in an emergency -

Set up wireless pull cord alarm systems (personal and fall) in the house that deliver both an audible and visual alarm. An alarm can make an elderly person feel safer, and they also give peace of mind to family.

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Throw more light on the subject -

Consider fitting extra lighting in the bathroom. An elderly person with poor eyesight will benefit enormously from a well-illuminated environment, and it will aid in preventing slip-related injuries.

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Seating arrangements -

A raised toilet seat is very useful for seniors who have difficulty sitting on a standard toilet seat. Transitioning from a standing position will be less of a struggle too.

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Open wide -

Fit "loop" pulls or long "D-shaped" handles (pictured) rather than knobs for cabinet doors—arthritic hands will be grateful for the easier grip.

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Plug the gap -

Anyone suffering from backache knows how painful it can be just bending over to switch on a light or appliance. Ease potential discomfort by placing plug points at table top height instead of half a meter (1 ft) from the floor.

See also: How to save money around the house during summer

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